Business Network News

February 1, 2008

New report: "State of Green Business 2008"

From our colleagues at GreenBiz.com, this is the first report to take stock of green business activities in the United States, and features the debut of the GreenBiz Index, a set of 20 indicators of green business progress that will be updated annually.

It measures how efficiently companies are using resources, reducing toxics, purchasing green fleet vehicles and renewable power, and reporting social and environmental performance. It also features the 10 key green business trends of 2007 as well as dozens of "Editors' Picks," lists compiled of the best books, websites, reports, business initiatives, and other resources of the past year. It will help you better understand the green business landscape.

Download the free 64-page report »

Honest Tea’s Drink Pouches Support Inner City Schools

The new partnership between Honest Tea and TerraCycle that recycles drink pouches will be showcased in a Nina Valenti designer gown made from over five thousand Honest Kids drink pouches.

On February 19, a concert featuring Soyeon Lee will benefit innercity music programs. Sponsored by Inc. Magazine, Fast Company Magazine and Rice Restaurant, the event will showcase Lee in a designer gown made from the pouches gathered by students from over 535 schools across America to raise money for various school programs. Following the concert, the pouches will be re-sewn into products ranging from tote-bags to pencil cases to be sold in fundraising efforts.

Visit HonestTea.com »

Recycline wins Forbes Contest

Recycline, manufacturer of toothbrushes, razors and other consumer products from 100% recycled plastic won the inaugural Forbes.com “Boost Your Business” contest in a sea of 1,000 entrepreneurs. The award of $100,000 will be used to grow the company.

Learn more »

More Awards for Business Members

The 2007 Socially Responsible Business Awards at Natural Products Expo East honored Green America members Steez Soda, Kopali and Under the Canopy. Founded in 1994, the awards honor businesses working to integrate social responsibility into all aspects of their company. The nominees are judged in the following categories: community involvement, education, heath, employee empowerment, environment, and sourcing.

**Sweetriot nominated for Fast Company's Fast 50**

Sweetriot is nominated for Fast Company Maganzine’s "Fast 50," a contest that recognizes the work of companies creating positive change in the world. Founder Sarah Endline remarked on their company’s mission, “Sweetriot has distributed almost a million units of all-natural, chocolate treats. Each unit impacts an emerging artist whose artwork is featured on the tin…and the farmers and workers in Latin America who create our product.” The company has seen double digit annual growth and is setting an example for a sustainable business that weaves together economic and social impact.

Learn more about Sweetriot and other nominees »

Investors’ Circle accepting applications

Investors’ Circle (IC), the nation’s oldest angel investor network, focusing on companies working to solve social and environmental issues, is accepting applications for 2008 Spring Venture Fair. The event will showcase the next generation of “sustainable, mission-driven ventures.” Organizations with a focus in the following areas are encouraged to apply: Energy & Environment, Food & Organics, Health & Wellness, Education, Media, and Community & International Development.

In the past 3 years, IC venture fairs have resulted in over $20 million in investment. Investments include Guayaki, IceStone, Indigenous Designs, PeaceKeeper Cause-Metics, Niman Ranch, and United Villages.

Learn more »

Responsible Flooring

EcoTimber has just announced the first bamboo flooring made with formaldehyde-free adhesives. According to CEO Lewis Buchner, "We understand that being green means harvesting our wood or bamboo sustainably, and keeping toxins out of the air in our customer's homes, our goal is to remain on the cutting edge of what it means to be a "green" company, with our products and our operations."

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New Leaf Paper's New Product FSC-Certified

New Leaf Paper announces the Forest Stewardship Council certification of their New Leaf Primavera Gloss. The certification of this high-end gloss coated paper is further recognition of New Leaf’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Coupled with a new pledge to increase the post-consumer content of their paper to 60%, New Leaf leads the paper industry in sustainable accountability.

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Big Renewable Energy Trade Show

The Trade Show at WIREC 2008
March 3-7, 2008, Washington, DC

Energy ministers from over 50 countries will attend.
There will be 285 speakers on wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, biomass and biofuels; more than 250 exhibitors; 11 international and two state pavilions and two major receptions. Co-located with the Washington International Renewable Energy Conference hosted by the US Government

Learn more »